In recent years, New Zealand’s principal claim to fame has been Sauvignon Blanc, but the Kiwis also produce some formidable Pinot Noir. This bargain comes from the southern end of the North Island, in the Wairarapa region near the capital of Wellington, where mountains shelter the vineyards from rain. The harvest season weather is generally dry, allowing slow, steady ripening of the grapes.

Enthusiastic predictions by leading oenologists, who compared the climate and well-drained soils of Martinborough to those of Burgundy, inspired the partners of Martinborough Vineyard to plant their first Pinot Noir vineyard in 1980. Today they boast some of the most mature plantings of Pinot Noir in New Zealand, which are sustainably farmed by dedicated, experienced growers. Martinborough also produces noteworthy Chardonnay, Pinot Gris and Riesling.